Brain dopamine responses to ultra-processed milkshakes are highly variable
A study on brain dopamine responses to ultra-processed milkshakes in 50 adults found no significant dopamine increase in the striatum. Responses varied individually and were not linked to body mass. Research challenges the addictive food theory.
Read original article
The study investigated the brain dopamine responses to ultra-processed milkshakes in 50 healthy adults with varying body mass indexes. Using positron emission tomography, researchers found that consuming the milkshake did not lead to a significant dopamine response in the brain's striatum. Additionally, the responses varied greatly among individuals and were not significantly linked to adiposity levels. The study suggests that the dopamine responses to ultra-processed milkshakes may be smaller than those induced by addictive drugs, falling below the detection limits of standard PET methods. The research was supported by the National Institutes of Health and the NIH Center on Compulsive Behaviors. The findings challenge the notion that ultra-processed foods high in fat and sugar may be addictive due to their impact on brain dopamine levels.
Related
High-fat diet, microbiome-gut-brain axis signaling, and anxiety in rats
Researchers studied male rats on a high-fat diet (HFD) to analyze its impact on gut microbiome, brain gene expression, and anxiety behavior. HFD led to reduced microbiome diversity, altered gene expression, and increased anxiety-like behaviors.
Ultra-processed foods need tobacco-style warnings, says scientist
A scientist proposes tobacco-style warnings on ultra-processed foods (UPFs) due to health risks. UPFs displace healthier options, fuel obesity, and chronic diseases. Calls for public health campaigns, restrictions, taxation, and debate on UPFs' impact and regulation.
The case for omega-3 supplementation to lower aggression
A meta-analysis by Adrian Raine shows omega-3 reduces aggression by 30% in diverse groups. The study of 29 trials with 3,918 participants supports omega-3's role in curbing violent behavior, suggesting its use alongside existing interventions. Raine advocates for widespread omega-3 implementation to address aggression effectively.
The consumption of certain food emulsifiers may increase the risk of cancer
Certain emulsifiers in ultra-processed foods may increase cancer risk, especially breast and prostate cancer. French study on 92,000 adults highlights concerns over emulsifiers like mono- and diglycerides, urging more research and regulation.
Mixing energy drinks and alcohol during adolescence impairs brain function
A study on ScienceDirect warns about the harmful effects of combining energy drinks and alcohol in adolescence. Research on rats showed lasting brain function impairments, affecting synaptic plasticity and gene expression.
0 commentsRelated
High-fat diet, microbiome-gut-brain axis signaling, and anxiety in rats
Researchers studied male rats on a high-fat diet (HFD) to analyze its impact on gut microbiome, brain gene expression, and anxiety behavior. HFD led to reduced microbiome diversity, altered gene expression, and increased anxiety-like behaviors.
Ultra-processed foods need tobacco-style warnings, says scientist
A scientist proposes tobacco-style warnings on ultra-processed foods (UPFs) due to health risks. UPFs displace healthier options, fuel obesity, and chronic diseases. Calls for public health campaigns, restrictions, taxation, and debate on UPFs' impact and regulation.
The case for omega-3 supplementation to lower aggression
A meta-analysis by Adrian Raine shows omega-3 reduces aggression by 30% in diverse groups. The study of 29 trials with 3,918 participants supports omega-3's role in curbing violent behavior, suggesting its use alongside existing interventions. Raine advocates for widespread omega-3 implementation to address aggression effectively.
The consumption of certain food emulsifiers may increase the risk of cancer
Certain emulsifiers in ultra-processed foods may increase cancer risk, especially breast and prostate cancer. French study on 92,000 adults highlights concerns over emulsifiers like mono- and diglycerides, urging more research and regulation.
Mixing energy drinks and alcohol during adolescence impairs brain function
A study on ScienceDirect warns about the harmful effects of combining energy drinks and alcohol in adolescence. Research on rats showed lasting brain function impairments, affecting synaptic plasticity and gene expression.